Comprehensive Electrical PPM Checklist for Your Organisation

If planned preventative maintenance (PPM) is a phrase that makes you shudder, don't worry!

PPM is an approach taken by many business and property owners who want to be proactive in the maintenance and repair of their assets.

The fundamental principle of PPM is that it is cheaper and more efficient in the long run to regularly and proactively maintain your facility.

At Waterhouse, we help organisations across the South West stay safe and compliant with regulations, whilst saving money on costly repairs.

But what does that actually mean?

Our electrical engineering team have put together a simple, easy to use checklist for ensuring your office, school, hospital, surgery or (almost) any facility remains safe and compliant.

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Electrical PPM Checklist

✔️ 1. Fixed Wire Testing (EICR)

• Full Electrical Installation Condition Report

  • Every 5 years for schools and offices

  • Every 3 years for industrial factories

• Must be carried out by a qualified NICEIC or equivalent contractor

• Action required for all C1/C2 issues found

• Note: if a full test has been carried out, you can then carry out tests on 20% of the fixed wire circuits annually

  
  

✔️ 2. Emergency Lighting Tests

• Monthly flick tests (functionality)

• Annual full 3-hour duration test

• Battery backup system checks

• Logbook records for inspections and maintenance

  
  

✔️ 3. Portable Appliance Testing (PAT)

• Annual testing of all plug-in electrical items

• More frequent for high-use or high-risk areas (e.g. kitchens, science labs)

• Inventory updates and asset tagging recommended

  
  

✔️ 4. Distribution Board Inspections

• Thermographic surveys to detect overheating components

• Label and document all circuits clearly

• Check for signs of wear, damage or loose connections

  
  

✔️ 5. RCD and RCBO Testing

• Test all Residual Current Devices (RCDs) every 6 months

• Confirm correct tripping times and reset functionality

• Record test results and any issues addressed

  
  

✔️ 6. Lightning Protection System Checks

• Annual inspection of lightning conductors and bonding

• Ensure compliance with BS EN 62305 standards

• Recommended for larger schools, listed buildings, and healthcare estates

  
  

✔️ 7. Building Management Systems (BMS) inspections

• Secure doors, signage, and safe access

• Ventilation clear and functioning

• Dust/debris removed to prevent overheating

• Check panel boards, breakers, and isolators

  
  

✔️ 8. Generator & UPS Maintenance (if installed)

• Load tests and fuel checks

• Visual and functional inspection

• Test changeover switches and alarms

  
  

✔️ 9. Documentation and Records Management

• Maintain up-to-date logs of inspections and repairs

• Archive EICRs, PAT results, and lightning protection reports

• Ensure compliance evidence for Ofsted, CQC, and insurers

  
  

Why It Matters

Failing to complete routine electrical maintenance puts staff, visitors, pupils or patients at risk. Plus, it can invalidate insurance or lead to prosecution under the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989.

Working with a trusted PPM partner like Waterhouse ensures you stay compliant, safe, and audit-ready year-round.

Let Us Do the Heavy Lifting

We offer tailored PPM contracts for schools and public buildings across Bristol, Bath, Somerset, and North Somerset, covering all key electrical and building services.

Get in touch today to request a free site visit or custom maintenance plan.

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FAQs

Q: What is an EICR certificate?

An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) is a document that assesses the safety and condition of a property's electrical installation, including wiring, sockets, and other fixed electrical components. It's a test conducted by a qualified, certified professional to ensure the electrical system is safe and meets current regulations.

Q: How often should I do fixed wire testing?

Q: Can PAT testing be done in-house?

Q: What happens if we miss a scheduled test?